Scrutineering Conversations – Part 22
Drayson Racing
 
Every driver looks forward to Le Mans, but perhaps none more so than Paul Drayson. For the ennobled Government Minister, the appearance of his own team campaigning a debuting Aston Martin Vantage GT2 marks the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
 
“This is the best feeling in the world.  I woke up yesterday and thought “I’m really here” This really is a dream come true; the car looks great and the whole team are really looking forward to all of it.
 
“At the moment I’m trying to savour every single moment, every stage of this is exciting – I got very excited, even a bit emotional about signing on.  It feels like I have joined a very special club.
 
“In many ways it’s even more special to come here like this after having been before as a spectator and as a guest.
 
“Having said all of that we are here to compete, and to do that effectively I think you have to do a good job and to really enjoy it.  I know I drive best when I’m happy.”
 
Marino Franchitti
 
“This is my second time here after a run in the Panoz GT2 a couple of years ago.
 
“I’m absolutely delighted to be here, I can’t tell you what it means to me.
 
“First though, there are big thanks to both Dyson and to Mazda for releasing me to drive here.
 
“Paul’s enthusiasm is infectious and that shows through in the way that the whole team approaches this race.  The invitation to the (Paul Ricard) test was a really good opportunity to get to grips with the car, to meet and gel with the team and all of that really important stuff in making it all come together at Le Mans.
 
“I’ve driven the 997 RSR and a 430GT, plus the Panoz of course, and I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised by the car; we made a lot of progress at the test.
 
“I think we might surprise a few people.”
 
Jonny Cocker
 
“I am over the moon to be here – It’s great to be part of something that looks and feels very special.
 
“The car is good in the wet, so that doesn’t worry me too much.  I’m enjoying the build up; it’s really great - but I really, really want to get on track and get on with it now that I’m finally here.” 

GG